FAA Names UAL Captain As Chief Operating Officer For ATO

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Key Takeaways:

  • Henry "Hank" Krakowski, former VP of flight operations for United Air Lines, has been named Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the FAA's Air Traffic Organization.
  • In his new role, Krakowski will lead 35,000 personnel responsible for the National Airspace System, overseeing its operations, finances, research, and acquisition programs.
  • He brings nearly 30 years of experience from United Air Lines, with a background spanning flying (including Boeing 737 captain), labor relations, air traffic, and scheduling.
  • Krakowski's appointment is seen as crucial for implementing next-generation aviation technology and modernizing the U.S. air transportation system, leveraging his commitment to safety and leadership.
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Henry (Hank) Krakowski, vice president of flight operations for United Air Lines, has been named chief operating officer (COO) of the FAA’s Air Traffic Organization. He will lead the 35,000 controllers, technicians, engineers and support personnel who run the National Airspace System. As COO, he will oversee operations and finances as well as research and acquisition programs. Hank is the right person to help implement the next generation of aviation technology, said Department of Transportation Secretary Mary Peters. His commitment to safety, outstanding operational experience, and leadership abilities will advance our efforts to modernize our nations air transportation system. Krakowski worked at UAL for almost 30 years, and his background includes all aspects of aviation, including flying, labor relations, air traffic and scheduling. He’s a Boeing 737 captain and has flown the Boeing 747, 737 and 727 as well as the Douglas DC-10 and DC-8. Krakowski starts his new job Oct. 1. He replaces Russell Chew, who left in February.

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